York Residents Urged To Lock Up Following Spate Of Sneak-in Burglaries

The warning comes following a spate of burglaries in York where the thieves have entered homes through open or unlocked doors and windows.

14 burglaries have been reported since 10 July, with 11 of those taking place in the past week. Most of them have taken place in the Heworth and Huntington areas of York.

Police are asking residents to make sure they lock their doors and windows before they go to bed, when they go out and when they are in the garden. For example, if you are in the back garden, make sure your front and side doors or locked and there are no downstairs or accessible windows left open.

They are also asking people not to leave their personal belongings on display near doors and windows.

Detective Inspector Andrea Kell of York CID said:

“Sneak-in thieves are on the lookout for any opportunity they can find to help themselves to your belongings. Please don’t give them that opportunity. It only takes a few seconds to lock your doors and windows, and it could save you a lot of distress and expense. Thieves are targeting smaller items such as handbags and purses, so please make sure they keep these items secure."

“I also urge householders to report any suspicious people, vehicles or activity in their neighbourhood to the police. Details such as descriptions, clothing and vehicle registration numbers can be very helpful to the police.”

To report a burglary to the police or pass on information about suspicious activity, please call the non-emergency number 101.

If you wish to remain anonymous, you can pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

If you see a crime taking place, please call 999 as you could help to prevent a crime or help us to arrest a suspect